Creating vector locks

An extension line created from a smart point indicates a vector, or direction. This vector can be locked to facilitate drawing and moving objects, because the SmartCursor stays locked to that vector and serves as a guide for snapping along that vector.

To create a vector lock:

1.      Select the tool for drawing, an object to move, or other operation that requires a vector lock.

It is helpful to display acquisition hints, which show when a vector lock can be set. This is a Vectorworks interactive preference; see Vectorworks preferences: Interactive pane.

2.During the operation, the feedback segment indicates the vector direction and the acquisition hint at the cursor indicates that a vector lock can be set. A vector lock can be set along a smart point extension line. As the cursor moves along the extension line, the lock acquisition hint shows that a vector lock can be set.

3.Press the T key to create the vector lock in the direction of the extension line, or press the G key to set the vector lock relative to a datum, using the Data bar.

The vector lock displays. The appearance of vector locks can be set as described in Configuring interactive display.

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4.The SmartCursor locks to the vector and the operation is snapped along the desired direction.

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The Data bar can create a vector lock along a specific direction. Enter values in the Data bar as described in Using the Data bar. A vector lock displays, and the SmartCursor only snaps to points on the locked line.

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Setting snapping parameters

Drawing with snapping

 

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